URGENT UPDATE: A tragic crash on Interstate 25 near Loveland, Colorado, has claimed the life of 17-month-old Elijah Manley. The Larimer County Coroner’s Office confirmed his death following a four-vehicle collision on Tuesday that also left another juvenile and two adults injured.
The collision occurred near Crossroads Boulevard and was triggered by an earlier incident involving a vehicle that had to pull over due to a medical emergency, according to a release from the Colorado State Patrol. This resulted in a catastrophic secondary crash involving a box truck, a Lexus GX, a Kia Telluride, and a Chevrolet Silverado hauling a trailer.
Elijah was pronounced dead at the scene, while two adults and one child from the Lexus were transported to the hospital with injuries. The driver of the box truck, Jose Salazar, 35, is facing severe charges including vehicular homicide, child abuse, and several counts of vehicular assault. Salazar reportedly veered from the center lane, striking the Lexus and pushing it into other vehicles.
A court appearance for Salazar is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on December 29 at the 8th Judicial District Court in Fort Collins. Authorities are currently investigating the full circumstances surrounding this devastating incident.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Elijah’s family during this unimaginable time. The fundraiser aims to assist with lost wages and unexpected expenses as the family grapples with their profound loss. “No words can fully capture the heartbreak of losing a child in a tragic car accident,” the campaign description states, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
As this story develops, it is crucial for community members to come together to support those affected. Updates will continue to be provided as more details emerge from this heartbreaking incident.
